Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 25, 2025

Assessment of Physical Activity Intensity with Accelerometers and Oxygen Consumption
Published on: June 20, 2025
Physical activity is associated with grit and resilience in college students: Is intensity the key to success?
Emily R Dunston1, Emily S Messina1, Alan J Coelho1
1Department of Wellness and Movement Sciences, Eastern Washington University, Cheney, Washington, USA.
Abstract:
Objective: To determine the independent associations among physical activity, sitting, grit, and resilience in college students. Participants: Undergraduate students (n = 244) from a regional university participated in the study in January 2018. Methods: An online survey regarding physical activity, grit, and resilience was distributed via email. Linear regression analyses were used to determine independent associations among grit, resilience, physical activity and sitting. One-way ANCOVAs were used to determine differences in grit and resilience across levels of activity. Results: Vigorous physical activity was positively associated with resilience and the perseverance of effort grit domain, while being negatively associated with the consistency of interest grit domain. Further, grit and resilience scores were significantly higher with increased volumes of vigorous, but not moderate, physical activity. Conclusions: The intensity of physical activity may play an important role in psychosocial determinants related to student success such as grit and resilience.
Related Concept Videos
Cognitive Dissonance
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques II
Type A Personality: Driven and Easily Stressed
Individuals with Type A personalities are often highly competitive and ambitious and operate with a strong sense of urgency. Commonly labeled as...
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques I
Conscientiousness
Conscientious individuals tend to be organized, responsible, and disciplined. They prioritize completing tasks and following structured routines,...
Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle
Psychological Responses to Stress
Growth versus Fixed Mindset

